Celebrating the midnight mass in Rmeich and the one on the 25th in Kley’a, in a relatively stable Lebanon, the apostolic nuncio praised the tenacity of the faithful people of the Land of Cedars. He commended their attachment to their land, which is considered “holy”. Echoing the words of the Pope, he urged them to never let their hope be stolen.
By: Fady Noun – Asia News
Publication Date:
In a Lebanon relatively stabilized by the decision to implement UN Resolution 1701 and the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, the apostolic nuncio Monsignor Paolo Borgia chose to celebrate Christmas in Rmeich (with 12,000 inhabitants) and Kley’a (with 2,500 inhabitants). These are two Christian Maronite border towns that have endured the fourteen months of war that Hezbollah waged against Israel in support of Hamas, from October 8, 2023, until the ceasefire on December 8th.
Despite the challenges, these towns opposed any use of their territory and human resources by Hezbollah militants, along with vigilant monitoring of the area by skilled and brave individuals. This strategic stance prevented direct targeting by the Israeli army during the conflict, even though they were on the front lines. However, they faced precarious conditions during the months of gunfire, with dangerous roads and risks in transporting essential goods.
“While we were not directly bombed,” says Father Tony Elias of Rmeich to AsiaNews, “it doesn’t mean we weren’t afraid.” He describes how their village suffered damage from bullets and grenades during the war, affecting homes and livelihoods. The economic consequences hit the agricultural sector hard, with olive groves, tobacco crops, and beekeeping all impacted.
Despite the challenges, the community in Rmeich and Kley’a remains resilient and united. The nuncio celebrated midnight mass in Rmeich and Christmas Day service in Kley’a, witnessing the steadfast faith and endurance of the Lebanese people in the face of adversity.
The apostolic nuncio emphasized the significance of Lebanon’s hope and resilience, highlighting the deep-rooted faith and attachment to the land as sources of strength. He acknowledged the hardships faced by the communities in the South of Lebanon, expressing solidarity with those who remained and those who couldn’t, as well as those who lost their homes.
As he celebrated Christmas in these towns, Monsignor Paolo Borgia conveyed a message of solidarity and support, echoing the presence and care of Pope Francis for the Lebanese people. He recognized the ancient faith of Lebanese Christians, rooted in the holy land where Christ and his disciples walked, a land they proudly continue to inhabit, drawing strength and hope from their heritage.
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